2.5!!

Our dear sweet AlteLu turned 2.5!  It's hard to believe that this little love has been in our life for such a short period, yet at the same time, we can't imagine life without her.  AlteLu will often ask, "How's your day?" as a conversation starter, or will tell an elaborate story about Hoppy or Roscoe, where they like to go, what they like to do, and that Robin Hood is Hoppy's (who is AlteLu's sister) favorite movie.  She loves chocolate (and says this word in the most endearing way).  She also loves yogurt, babybells, popcorn, and dipping chips in tziki, frijoles, and mole.  AlteLu is quick to tell that she loves her brother, Hershel, and will invite you for Shabbat dinner in her play nook if you'd like.  She is also enjoying school, and plays with friends--Zoe, Asha, Benjy, and Johan.

Hersh is quite grown-up as he approaches 6.  He is creative and loving, thoughtful and empathetic.  He can also be impulsive and aggressive, the way many boys of his age are.  The love between them is beautiful.  Most nights after dinner I read to them together on the couch.  I treasure this time when they are both close enough to me, that I can kiss them in between pages.

Freezing in Philly

We made our President's Day Weekend voyage to Philly for a weekend of sibling/cousin/aunt/uncle love.  As usual, we had a wonderful time being all together, and as usual, it was freezing!!!!! The cold weather lead us to the Franklin Institute, which is filled with exhibits that can be described as "timeless."  We also went to IKEA which is a perfect place to take two 2 year olds when the temperature us low.  Hersh had an overnight with Aunt Mimi and Daniel, which makes him feel very grown-up:)  Today we are enjoying a leisurely day at home as it gently snows outside.  And soon enough our sweet AlteLu will be 2 1/2!

Gan Rimonim Visits

This week we had the chance to be welcomed into Hersh's classroom twice.  First, we attended the Bayit Patuach, where his class presented some of the work they have been engaged in over the course of the school year.  From creating a new school library, learning about literary critique and the benefits of having numerous drafts of work, and Hebrew language explosion, Hersh has learned a lot.  Then, it was Hersh's chance to be the Student Spotlight.  We shared the tradition of how he likes to decorate for holidays, and his interest in paper airplane making.  The two of these combined have lead to origami animals.  All of the children in his class make origami penguins.  Then, we (mostly Hersh) read "Spoon" to the class.  Also, each child in the class writes a message to the Student Spotlight.  The kind words about Hersh from his peers are so sweet and he loved reading them:)  Hersh also had basketball practice this week.  He has picked up lots of skills and even made 7 (!) baskets today, which gave him great pride.
AlteLu had a playdate this morning with two friends from school.  It is amazing to watch her blossom socially.  Now, when friends come to our house she engages with the other children in deep imaginative play, like going ice skating.  She has also started to use the word "actually" (which is amazing) and loves "making Shabbat dinner"in her playnook.  She has a little stuffed cat that has a lollipop, that she affectionately calls her Lollipop Sister, and she often reminds us that her stuffed crib friends are her brothers and sisters.  AlteLu loves to stand at the counter and help me cook.  She also is an expert doctor, and will often ask to "check you out."